Best Waterproof Headlamp: Illuminate Your Surroundings

Are you getting tired of having to hold your flash flight as you fix your car, hike with your friends, camp with family or take your dog out for a night walk? The best waterproof headlamp can help you keep both your hands-free so you can attend to your needs even in wet conditions.

Carrying a flashlight can limit your activities as you always need to hold it. Using a headlamp gives you more freedom, and most products are capable of casting long beams and come with numerous features. The best ones are also easy to wear and very light, making them ideal for running, cycling, working and camping.

When choosing a headlamp, there are some factors that you need to consider, such as brightness levels, batteries, ability to adjust, and other features. Check out this post and discover what makes a headlamp good and which the must-have products in today’s market are. You will want to keep in mind some of these features to narrow down your search.

Things to Consider Before Buying

Maximum Brightness

Comparing the brightness level of every product based on descriptions can be tricky as lumens can be measured in many ways. Some headlamps come with two or three lights, and measurement may depend on the size, shape, color of light, and batteries used.

When choosing the brightness level, you may opt for ones that offer 400 to 500 lumens. You may also select headlamps that have 600 or higher according to your intended use. In addition to the lumens, check the beam distance the headlamp offers.

Waterproof Ratings

Another factor that you may want to consider is the ability of the headlamp to resist water. The IPX standard allows you to compare one waterproof product from another. The IP Code rates the level of protection provided against water, dust, as well as shock.

Waterproof headlamps usually have IPX4 to IPX7 ratings. IPX7 is more than enough for outdoor activities and wet conditions. Based on your activity, here is an overview to help you decide:

IPX4 – withstands splashing water from any angles

IPX5 – withstands low-pressure water stream

IPX6 – withstands high-pressure water stream

IPX7 – withstands water immersion up to 1-meter depth for 30 minutes

Weight

The weight of headlamp does not matter for many people as most headlamps are lightweight and can be worn comfortably. However, you will want the lightest product available if you are an avid runner or you are performing activities where weight has to be considered.

Headlamps are available in different weight ranges. You will find products weighing 1.5 ounces and some can be 10 ounces.

Batteries

Long battery life will give you a peace of mind. It also means that you only need a few extra batteries to bring. When choosing a headlamp, you may consider buying one that comes with batteries. Some lights also include rechargeable batteries in the package, which will help you save money and time from replacements every several hours.

While some models offer up to 8 hours of battery life, it may be better to opt for a headlamp that provides more than 20 hours of run time for camping, hiking or fishing purposes.

Red Light Mode

The red light mode also comes in handy, especially if you are sharing a tent with your family or friends. It does not cause pupils to shrink even when you look at it. This setting allows you to save battery life as your eyes adjust quickly to dark surroundings. Turning this on will also not wake everyone up when you use it inside the tent.

In addition to preserving night vision, red light is also ideal for star-gazing. It is also useful for hunting animals by identifying them based on the shape and shine of their eye reflection.

Best Products in Today’s Market

Now that you’ve discovered what factors to consider when choosing the right headlamp for your activity, we have here a list of the top-rated products and their features.

Description: The OZLON Waterproof LED Headlamp offers three modes of brightness. It has flickering light, dim light, and hard light. This allows you to adjust the illumination when necessary and use less if there is a need to save energy. With its 2000 mAh Li-ion battery, this headlamp works for up to 8 hours in medium settings and 4 hours in high mode.

This bright headlamp provides up to 500 feet of visibility, thanks to its 500-lumen darkness-busting power. It features 90-degree tilt angle and adjustable focus distance to help you observe your surroundings. This headlamp also comes with soft nylon strap and elastic band that adjusts to fit your head, giving you comfort as you walk, hike, or hunt in the dark.

There are two methods to recharge this headlamp. To avoid the trouble of replacing the battery, it lets you use a wall charger when you are indoors or recharge using a USB cable when you are outdoors.

Whether you need to change tires or look for your way out in the forest, this headlamp has a waterproof design that withstands splashes and rain. However, this product should not be used underwater.

PROS:

3 modes of brightness

Adjustable focus

Dual recharge methods

IPX4 water-resistant

500 lumen up to 500 ft

CONS:

May not last long

Low battery life

Related: When an emergency occurs while you’re in rural areas, you will need a shelter. The Aceporte Emergency Mylar Tent & Magnesium Fire Starter Kit is used for outdoor activities, such as hiking and camping. It has Myler thermal material that reflects up to 90% of body heat. This survival shelter is both windproof and waterproof, making it an excellent option for any weather. In addition to its magnesium fire starter, it also comes with a whistle and compass to help you on your adventure.

Description: The Hoey Ultra Bright LED Headlamp Flashlight withstands heavy rain, heat, cold and accidental drops. This device is also dirt-resistant, making it easy to clean. Rated IPX6, this light is protected against spraying or splashing water from all angles. It also survives an immersion for 30 minutes at a depth of one meter.

This headlamp produces 300 feet beam and comes with two separate buttons that allow you to use white or red light. In addition to its variety of light modes and SOS mode, it also has a 60-degree stirring body for versatile use.

With only 2.4 ounces, wearing this lightweight headlamp is unnoticeable. This makes it a good option for those who are searching for a comfortable fit. By using CREE 3W technology, it provides more brightness with less energy used and works for up to 45 hours. This device also comes with 3 AAA batteries that will give you long hours of nighttime adventure.

PROS:

Up to 45 hours battery life

IP64 waterproof rating

5 light modes

Red light and SOS modes

180 lumen up to 300 feet

CONS:

Not durable

Difficult to recharge

Related: When the weather doesn’t look so great, but you still want to continue with your outdoor activities, you will need to protect yourself from unexpected rains. The 4ucycling Portable Hooded Raincoat offers wind shielding and 100% water resistance. Ideal for cycling or walking in the rain, it has a hooded design for maximum rain protection, featuring full drawstrings for additional comfort.

Totobay Waterproof 5000Lm LED Headlamp

Description: The Totobay Waterproof 5000Lm LED Headlamp comes with 3 LEDs beams to provide enough light for nighttime outdoor activities and work for 100,000 hours. It also has 4 light switch modes for different uses. Low mode uses one light, mid mode uses two lights, and both high and strobe modes use three lights. Using high light allows you to illuminate up to 500 feet. It is also 90-degree adjustable.

With IP65 waterproof rating, it reduces your worry about splashes, rain and harsh weathers. Made of imported brand new plastic and aluminum, this waterproof headlamp is also anti-stab and anti-drop. However, it is not recommended to put this device directly into the water.

This headlamp is powered by two 18650 rechargeable batteries, which are included in the pack. It has 3 charging ways for different circumstances. Depending on your location, this device lets you charge the batteries by using the wall charger, car charger or USB cable. Each charge provides about 14 hours of battery life. This ensures that the headlamp will always be ready to use whenever necessary.

PROS:

Up to 14 hours battery life

Three LEDs beam

4 light switch modes

IP65 waterproof

Two rechargeable batteries included

CONS:

Heavy

LEDs may burn out quickly

Related: Summer is the best time to stay outdoors and watch the stars. However, mosquitoes and other annoying insects can ruin your adventure. The Enkeeo 2-in-1 Mosquito Killer Camping Lantern is equipped with 2000 mAh rechargeable battery and runs for up to 15 hours. It has a removable lampshade, retractable hook and plastic cage to prevent you from touching the wire inside. This device is also IPX6 waterproof, allowing you to leave the light on even when it is raining.

Description: The Gentre Hands-Free Head Lamp offers five light modes for different places and situations. This device lets you use low light, mid light, high light, strobe light, as well as SOS light in case of emergencies. Thanks to its 1200 lumens maximum brightness, it produces enough illumination to make your dark surroundings visible.

Made of durable aluminum allow, this waterproof headlamp is also a good option for an underwater experience. It gives 160 to 500 feet underwater lightning, making it ideal for spearfishing, cave diving, and deep diving. In addition to underwater use, this headlamp also works well in most outdoor activities, such as running, hiking and camping.

For a more convenient control, this headlamp comes with magnetism control switch. This feature makes diving more comfortable because switching from one mode to another does not require too much effort. The rescue mode may also provide a guarantee to diving enthusiasts. To eliminate the hassle of buying new batteries, this headlamp includes a rechargeable battery.

PROS:

5 light modes

Up to 500 feet underwater lightning

Magnetism rotation switch

1 rechargeable battery included

CONS:

Charging problems may arise

Gets very hot

Related: To enjoy the astonishing view underwater, you need a reliable diving gear that will help you enjoy swimming better. The FiveBox Mirrored Silicone Seal Swimming Goggles is made of 100% soft and elastic silicone. It comes with adjustable side buckles for different size options and 3 interchangeable nose pieces. With its high suction performance, it keeps water out throughout your entire swim. It also reduces pressure around the eyes with anti-UV and non-fogging effects.

Description: The Fox Outfitters Firefly LED Headlamp lights up your surroundings with up to 115 lumens of LED headlamp lighting power. It uses CREE LEDs to give users a peace of mind knowing that this device uses reliable LEDs. With a rating of IPX6 waterproof, there is no need to fret about wet conditions. However, this device is not suitable for diving purposes as it does not provide enough illumination underwater.

This lightweight headlamp offers 6 different light modes. The white beam features low, middle, and high modes while the red night vision features high, strobe, and SOS modes. Turning off the light will require you to go through the entire sequence, but it is easy to control once you get used to the operation.

The red night vision feature is useful when you need to conserve battery power. It also helps your eyesight adjust faster to darkness. This headlamp holds two AAA batteries, and it runs for up to 3 hours.

PROS:

Rated at IPX6 waterproof

2 AAA Energizer batteries included

6 light modes

Red night vision

CONS:

Batteries included are not rechargeable

Turning it off must go through all modes

Related: Running out of batteries while you are camping or hiking can be frustrating, especially when you need power for your flashlight. The Energizer AAA Rechargeable Batteries are pre-charged and ready to use. The package includes 4 AAA 700 mAh NiMH batteries that are rechargeable for up to 700 times, delivering stable and long-lasting voltage to your devices.

Description: The Black Diamond Storm Headlamp is completely waterproof for big adventures and foul conditions. With IP67 waterproof rating, its sealed housing withstands immersion up to 1 meter for 30 minutes. This device is also dustproof and has a sleek, modern design. It does not require maintenance after submersion.

Weighing 3.2 oz., this waterproof headlamp features three different colored night vision modes and 350 lumens of power. The red, blue and green SinglePower LEDs have strobe and dimming settings and activate automatically without cycling through all modes.

This device allows you to turn the light off and on without changing the settings back to white mode, thanks to its Brightness Memory feature.

Using 4 AAA batteries, this headlamp offers eight different lightning modes for any situation. It has full strength, distance, dimming, strobe, green, red and blue night-vision and lock modes. Transitioning between full and dimmed power is instant, thanks to its PowerTap technology.

PROS:

8 light modes

IP67 waterproof and dustproof

PowerTap technology

Brightness memory

CONS:

Difficult to navigate with only one button

Too heavy for running

Related: Nighttime outdoor activities such as walking, running or cycling will require enough light to keep you visible in the dark. The Road ID Supernova Clip-On Safety Light has both flashing strobe and steady modes, making it a good device for evening adventures. It allows you to clip it on shirt collars, waistbands, backpacks, road bikes, jacket collars, dog collars, and more. This safety light is ideal for cyclists, walkers, runners and dog owners.

Description: The Gentre Adjust Super Bright Waterproof Head Lamp has IPX4 waterproof rate and withstands splashing water from all angles. It comes with an elastic, durable and adjustable headband for a comfortable hands-free experience when wearing it.

This headlamp has 3 CREE XM-L-XML T6 bright LED lights, and the maximum output is up to 5000 lumens. Available in four switch modes, low mode uses one light, mid mode uses two lights, high mode using three lights, and flashing strobe setting also uses three lights. This allows you to choose your desired mode in different places.

For a more convenient experience, this device lets you rotate the lamp holder up to 90 degrees when necessary. It provides clear visibility up to 600 feet in pitch darkness, making it ideal for home and auto repairs, camping, and other nighttime activities. This headlamp also comes with rechargeable batteries to help you save money and time.

PROS:

4 light modes

2 Rechargeable batteries included

IPX4 waterproof

90 degrees rotatable lamp holder

Up to 600 feet visibility

CONS:

Not enough reviews available

Related: If you need a pot for your next camping activity, the Esbit 3-Piece Lightweight Camping Cook Set might be the one you’ve been looking for. The kit includes 585-milliliter pot, lid, and pot stand. It uses unique, proprietary, solid state fuel cubes that are sold separately. Weighing only 7 ounces and with dimensions of 4.5 x 4.5 x 4.5 inches, this pot is ideal for campers and backpackers who like to travel light.

Description: The LuminoLite Ultra Bright CREE LED Headlamp features two buttons that let you switch easily from one mode to another. With white CREE xpe LED, it offers full brightness with 160 lumens, strobe mode, and dim mode. The red LEDs offer a constant mode to help your eyes adjust to the darkness, and SOS or flashing mode in case of emergencies.

Ideal for most outdoor activities, this headlamp has IPX6 waterproof rating with battery life that lasts for days. Made from durable materials, it comes with adjustable and stretchy head strap to fit all kids and adults. With sleek and stylish design, this device is comfortable to wear and great for sprinters.

Pivoting the angle of the light is easy with its adjustable beam, allowing you to move up or down to 45 degrees. Weighing only 1.6 ounces and three AAA batteries included, this lightweight headlamp illuminates your surroundings up to 262 feet.

PROS:

5 light settings

IPX6 waterproof

3 AAA batteries included

Adjustable beam up to 45 degrees

CONS:

Have to cycle through strobe mode to turn off

May not last long

Related: Cycling or running in the dark can be dangerous, especially if many vehicles are passing through the area. The Noxgear Tracer360 Illuminated & Reflective Vest has flexible fiber optic cables and 3M reflector chest belts that keep you safe by alerting drivers even before their headlights cover you. This item is lightweight, breathable, and comes with 6 super bright colors that are interchangeable with a simple press of a button.

Wrap Up

Now that you’ve reached the bottom of this guide, you should be able to decide on which product to buy according to your needs. The headlamps mentioned throughout the post offer enough brightness for nighttime activities, and most of them provide up to 500 feet of visibility.

Before you make a purchase, always consider your type of activities, run time, weight, and brightness level of the headlamp to help you have a great outdoor experience. Where and how do you prefer using your headlamp? Share your stories with us!

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Dennis Owens

Dennis Owens is a graduate of National Camping School and REI Outdoor School. He knows everything about what gear to take with you, how to plan your trip to stay safe and what to do if you get lost in the mountains. We are lucky to have Dennis with us as he is a ‘walking encyclopedia’ when it comes to the wilderness.

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